⚠️ Rogue Traders Active – Stay Alert This Spring!
As the weather improves, many households start planning home repairs and garden projects. Unfortunately, this is also when rogue traders become more active 🚫👷♂️. These individuals often cold‑call at homes, claiming urgent repairs are needed and pressuring residents into quick decisions, poor‑quality work, or large cash payments 💸.
🚨 Spot the Warning Signs
❗ “Urgent repairs needed”
They may claim your roof, gutters, chimney or driveway is unsafe and demand immediate, expensive work.
🚚 “We’re working in the area”
They offer a “cheap deal” using leftover materials — a common scam tactic.
💵 Cash‑only payments
They avoid card payments or bank transfers, and refuse to give written quotes, invoices, or receipts.
⏳ High‑pressure tactics
They create panic to stop you getting a second opinion or checking reviews.
📱 No professional details
No business address, no signage, and only a mobile number that later gets switched off.
💡 How to Protect Yourself
· 🚪 Never agree to work from unexpected doorstep callers
· 💳 Avoid paying large amounts upfront — especially in cash
· 📑 Get at least three written quotes from reputable traders
· 🔍 Check reviews on trusted sites like Checkatrade, TrustMark, or Buy With Confidence
· 🚫 Use a “No Cold Calling” sticker to deter doorstep scammers
· 🪪 Ask for ID and verify credentials (Gas Safe, NICEIC) where relevant
🛡️ If You’ve Been Targeted
· ✋ Stop all contact immediately
· 💰 Don’t hand over more money
· 🔒 Don’t share personal details
📞 Report it:
· Police: Call 101
- If someone becomes aggressive or refuses to leave — call 999 immediately 🚓
· Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040
· Citizens Advice: 0808 223 1133
· Your Bank: If you’ve made a payment or think your details are at risk